Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks that are utilized in various kinds of industries to move heavy materials and products. Forklifts are tough and dependable machines that are essential tools in construction and warehouse environments. Forklift models vary depending on the kind of work environment and the type of fuel which is utilized to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are best for indoor settings, or in sites with limited ventilation as they make no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. As the electric lift truck batteries need charging, the worksite would require a charging station. The batteries are durable and can be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station must be situated in a ventilated area and include an acid spill kit and an emergency eyewash station.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have several advantages over diesel and electric powered equipment making them quite common in industrial and warehouse environments. Propane engines are much cleaner compared to diesel-powered units. There is no down time required to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost of electricity is more than the cost of propane. A forklift propane tank could be refueled easily and quickly by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Normally an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling really safe and efficient.
Gasoline and Gas
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machinery of choice. These machinery are fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include odorous exhaust, fairly high fuel costs and fairly high maintenance requirements. Their benefits include a longer lifespan than other units and dependability in tough conditions. Diesel and gasoline units must be refueled at a supply station on site which meets health and safety regulations.